The fan-shaped water jet infiltrates the fatty tissue, transforming it into a gelatinous state. The tissue can then be suctioned off more effectively and in a manner that is less stressful for the patient than conventional liposuction. Large volumes of fat can therefore be safely removed in one session.

The jet has an impact power comparable to a powerful shower head. It therefore does not carry any risks of shearing and trauma to the adjacent tissues. The blood vessels are kept intact, hence less bruising and swelling is seen after WAL than any other liposuction technique.

The waterjet dislodges fat the same way as a jet of water would dislodge soil that is compacted in a pot. The fat cells are loosened and simultaneous suction removes the fat from the body. In the same way as water does not damage the roots of plants, there it is equally safe with blood vessels and nerves, minimising the bruising, swelling and numbness from liposuction surgery. The water used during surgery contains local anaesthetic, ensuring the procedure is painless.

The jet power can be adjusted so that even hard, fibrotic fat can be removed without excessive physical effort from the surgeon common with other liposuction techniques. Excess water is massaged away to allow accurate contouring. There is little surgical effort required from the surgeon. Many doctors describe the movements as similar to playing a slow song on the violin… the cannula is held lightly between thumb and two fingers. The technique is commonly known as Liposoft in the UK, because it is so gentle.

Histology of the removed fat shows that extensive disruption of the fat does not occur. Swelling due to tumescent effects is also absent.

Advantages of WAL

Painless surgery without the need for heavy sedation or general anaesthesia